International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2024

On June 18th, countries around the world observe the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. This important day aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of hate speech and promote strategies to identify, address, and counter it.

The Power of Youth for Countering Hate Speech

This year’s theme, “The Power of Youth for Countering and Addressing Hate Speech,” highlights the crucial role that young people play in fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society. The United Nations recognizes that hate speech, which targets and dehumanizes individuals based on their identity, is on the rise worldwide, spreading rapidly through social media platforms.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), hate speech in the form of “xenophobia, racism, antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, anti-LGBTQI+ hatred, misogyny, and other types of intolerance” is becoming increasingly prevalent, both online and offline.

UN’s Efforts to Combat Hate Speech

In July 2021, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on “promoting inter-religious and intercultural dialogue and tolerance in countering hate speech,” highlighting global concerns over the “exponential spread and proliferation of hate speech.” The resolution proclaimed June 18th as the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, building on the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech launched on the same day in 2019.

The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has emphasized the urgency of eradicating hate speech, stating, “Hate speech is a marker of discrimination, abuse, violence, conflict, and even crimes against humanity.” He stressed the importance of involving young people, particularly those from marginalized communities, in creating public and online spaces free from hate speech.

Call to Action

The United Nations invites governments, international organizations, civil society groups, and individuals to organize events and initiatives that promote strategies to identify, address, and counter hate speech. This collaborative effort aims to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and promote a more inclusive and respectful society.

By observing the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, we can collectively work towards creating a world where everyone can express themselves freely and without fear of discrimination or violence based on their identity.